Former Bayern Munich manager Wolfgang Felix Magath has backed Marc Cucurella to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, praising the defender’s consistency, defensive strength and contribution to Spain’s World Cup triumph.
Cucurella is among the 30 nominees for football’s most prestigious individual award, with the winner set to be announced at the ceremony in London on Monday, October 26.
The Spanish international faces competition from several leading attacking players, including Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal and Harry Kane.
Magath explains why Cucurella deserves Ballon d’Or recognition
Magath believes Cucurella’s performances at left-back deserve greater recognition in an award often dominated by goalscorers and attacking stars.
“He is world-class as a left-back, always there, very strong runner, and almost never loses a duel.
“He makes his side defensively solid and also gets involved going forward. He played a big role in Spain winning the World Cup. said the two-time Bundesliga manager.
Cucurella’s defensive positioning, work rate and ability to contribute in possession have helped establish him as a prominent figure in Spanish football.
His role in Spain’s World Cup-winning campaign was also central to his inclusion on the 2026 shortlist, which recognises performances across the 2025/26 season.
Cucurella jokes about winning Ballon d’Or
Cucurella has also approached the Ballon d’Or discussion with humour. During a light-hearted press conference earlier, the defender joked:
Cucurella is among the 30 nominees to win the Ballon d’Or. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
“If I had to vote, I would vote for myself,” while acknowledging that two of the nominees are his Real Madrid teammates.
Although his chances of winning remain uncertain, his nomination is a recognition of the contribution defenders can make to successful teams.
The award’s voting criteria consider individual performances, collective achievements and a player’s class and fair play.
The 2026 ceremony will take place at the London Palladium, marking the first time the Ballon d’Or awards have been held in London. The event also celebrates the prize’s 70th anniversary.